OBJECTIVE:
Enable help mariners with advice, opinion and assistance
The need has arisen due to the limitations and failures of the systems and procedures that exist in International and National Conventions and Rules

Background:
Maritime Labour Convention 2006 (ratified only by Bahamas, Norway, Liberia, Panama and Marshal Islands initially) has provided for some of the following. Following are listed with reference to MLC and Guidelines on Fair Treatment of Seafarers from IMO& ILO.

BASIC RIGHTS:
As enshrined in International Conventions, Regional Co-operation Agreements,
Flag State Merchant Shipping Acts, National Rules and Regulations of the Management/Manning agent, Training and Certifying Administrations/authorities etc

ALL SEAFARERS HAVE RIGHTS to:

1. Fair terms of employment including information on vessels, managers and owners
2. Safe and secure workplace.
3. Minimum Rest periods
4. Decent living conditions on board including food, water, linen etc
5. Recreational facilities and Communication systems
6. Health protection, medical care, welfare measures and social support.
7. Shore leave when ships are in port
8. Membership/Association with Trade Unions, Labour and Professional Forums
9. Lodge complaints and pursue redressal of grievances
10. Legal advice & aid in the course of duties and responsibilities including continued assistance on legal issues during restraints/detention if any and follow ups
11. Repatriation on completion of tenure
12. Support for recovery and convalescence, and compensation for disabilities if any, and Assistance and compensation to family for disabilities/loss of life